Erytheme mercuriel apres exposition accidentelle a des vapeurs de mercure

Translated title of the contribution: Mercury exanthem after accidental exposure to mercury vapor

Jacques Zimmer*, Florent Grange, Pierre Straub, Jean Marie Haegy, Jean Claude Guillaume

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

14 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Mercury exanthem can be considered as a systemic contact dermatitis following exposure to mercury vapor in patients with a prior sensitization to mercurials. It is characterized by a symmetrically distributed erythematous eruption appearing predominantly in the major flexural areas, in the neck, the lower portion of the abdomen and the upper anteromedial part of the thighs. In some cases, small pustules develop over the erythematous surfaces. We report our observations of two patients with mercury exanthem after exposure to mercury vapor caused by a broken thermometer. One of these patients presented with an unusual bullous form of mercury exanthem. Although diagnosis of mercury exanthem can be essentially based on clinical features, confirmation of the patient's exposure to mercury should be obtained. Cutaneous patch tests often prove the sensitization to mercurials.

Translated title of the contributionMercury exanthem after accidental exposure to mercury vapor
Original languageFrench
Pages (from-to)317-320
Number of pages4
JournalAnnales de Medecine Interne
Volume148
Issue number4
Publication statusPublished - 1997
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Contact dermitis
  • Exanthem
  • Mercury

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